Board Weighs Keech Reappointment

The Board of Education is studying whether to reappoint School Superintendent Ray R. Keech.

Keech informed the board Dec. 20 that he wants to serve another four years after his current term expires July 1.

The 55-year-old administrator is paid $92,794.

Under the county charter, the board must complete a review of Keech's performance byFeb. 1.

"I see no reason why he wouldn't be reappointed," board president George Lisby said. "The things he's been doing are the things that we've asked him to do."

Among Keech's accomplishments, Lisby said, were managing the school system's goals and objectives, establishing an alternative education program or problem students, and abolishing corporal punishment.

He said Keech's biggest challenge in his next term would be to expand educational opportunities during a fiscal crisis.

"With a growing population and a budget on the decline, can we maintain the quality education that we need in the 21st century?" Keech asked.

Anyone interested in commenting on Keech's performance may address the board when it meets at 7 p.m. Jan. 13, in the auditorium of Southampton Middle School.

Written comments may be sent to the Board of Education, 45 East Gordon St., Bel Air, Md. 21014.